Take Me Out to the Ballgame

Okay, so maybe Reed can't have Cracker Jacks, but we didn't let that stop us from introducing him to America's favorite pastime this last week. Fresno has a pretty decent AAA Baseball team, the Grizzlies (farm team to the Giants), and HMC always gets season tickets. One of the perks of being a season ticket holder is a free suite at one of the games. We took advantage of Pepe's generosity and used the suite as a trial run for taking Reed to a game. Not only did this allow the Monkey to wander around a bit more, we also didn't have to worry as much about peanut shells and other allergens that are in abundance at the ballpark.  Adding to Reed's excitement about the game was the fact that some of his favorite people were there . . . Nonna, Pepe, Grandma, Grandpa, Aunt "C," Tio, Auntie "P," Tim, and our good friend/co-worker Jerry.

When I told Reed we were staying up late and going to a baseball game he got so excited. Jon got stuck at work late and only got home a few minutes before we needed to leave. Reed charged Dad as soon as he walked in the door, screeching about going to the game. He stayed at that same level of excitement pretty much the rest of the night.

 

A couple of years ago Jon had a "run-in" with the Grizzlies' mascot, Parker - Jon's not a big hugger and dislikes having his face touched, both of which Parker did in abundance. When we heard Parker was making his way over I got a bit concerned for Jon (I don't pack enough sanitizer to undo that damage) and also for Reed, I wasn't sure how he'd react to an oversized stuffed animal, especially up close. When Parker came in Jon immediately turned beet red, Reed however was mesmerized and in awe of him. He gave Parker a big high five, talked to him a bit, and then said goodbye with an adorable wave. I think he spent more time looking for Parker down on the field than watching baseball for the remainder of the time we were there.

 



Not only was it a fun night of baseball, but we found quite a bit of food Reed could have. Reed ate a hot dog, chips, guacamole, and an iced lemonade which he wouldn't leave until he finished. All in all I would say our night was a huge success!!!